Miyahara: Ice Cream in a Bank Vault
Is this the most beautiful building in Taiwan? Eating chocolate in a former eye hospital that looks like Hogwarts.
TL;DR / Quick Summary
Is this the most beautiful building in Taiwan? Eating chocolate in a former eye hospital that looks like Hogwarts.
Miyahara: Ice Cream in a Bank Vault
Taichung is famous for two things: suncakes and massive, over-the-top architecture. Miyahara is the king of the latter. Built in 1927 by a Japanese ophthalmologist (Dr. Miyahara), this red-brick building fell into ruin for decades. The Dawncake group bought it and turned it into a dessert palace.
The Aesthetics
Walking in feels like entering Gringotts Bank or Hogwarts Library.
- High Ceilings: Wooden bookshelves soar to the ceiling (though the books are fake/decoration).
- Stained Glass: Beautiful light filters through the roof.
- Uniforms: The staff dress in retro safari-style outfits.
The Ice Cream
It is outside in the arcade hallway. Prepare to queue.
- Flavors: Over 60 kinds.
- Chocolate: 18 different percentages and origins (Uganda 80%, Venezuela 72%).
- Tea: Alishan Oolong, Earl Grey, etc.
- Fruits: Local mango, lychee, Kyoho grape.
- Toppings: This is the crazy part. You don't just get sprinkles. You get entire squares of cheesecake, pineapple cakes, and floral cookies.
Is it a tourist trap?
Technically, yes. But it is a delicious and beautiful tourist trap. Absolutely worth it.
The Voice of the People (Google Maps Summary)
"The Harry Potter vibes are real. The interior is absolutely stunning and worth the visit just for the photos. The ice cream is great, but be warned: there is no seating inside the main building. You have to eat outside in the arcade or walk to their sister branch, The Fourth Credit Union." — Local Guide, 2024
"The chocolate selection is overwhelming in the best way. Getting the 80% Uganda chocolate was a good choice. It melts very fast in the Taichung heat though!" — Visitor Review
